Probation

A person who is convicted of an offence is given a sentence that requires the person to obey certain conditions. Probation can be given in addition to a fine or a jail sentence. The offender on probation will be under supervision. If the offender violates the probation conditions, he or she must return to Court and may receive more serious consequences. A violation of probation conditions can result in a new charge before the courts.

Probation orders may have the following conditions:

Keep the peace and be of good behavior;

Appear in court when ordered by the court;

Tell the court or probation officer about any change of name, address or job.

In a lot of probation orders, the judge will make the offender report to a probation officer. A probation officer is not the same as a police officer, but they do have the power to charge an offender with a criminal offence if they break their probation conditions.

Sometimes victims may also be faced with criminal charges or convictions and may need assistance not provided by RDCVSU.